Are you looking for a new twist on classic pasta dishes? Look no further! In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering homemade tortellini recipes that are sure to impress your family and friends. From rich and creamy cheese fillings to savory meat and vegetable combinations, these recipes offer something for every taste and occasion.
Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty comfort food dish or a lighter, fresher option, our collection of tortellini recipes has got you covered. We’ll show you how to make classic cheese and ricotta tortellini, as well as more adventurous options like mushroom and truffle, lobster and crab, and even sweet potato and sage.
So grab your pasta machine (or a good old-fashioned rolling pin) and get ready to unleash your inner Italian chef! In the next section, we’ll dive into our first 10 recipes, starting with the timeless favorite: Classic Cheese and Ricotta Tortellini.
Classic Cheese and Ricotta Tortellini
A comforting and creamy pasta dish that’s perfect for a cozy evening. This recipe combines the richness of mozzarella cheese with the tanginess of ricotta, wrapped in tender tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 1 package (12 oz) cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine marinara sauce and reserved pasta water. Simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes.
3. Add shredded mozzarella cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
4. Stir in ricotta cheese until well combined.
5. Add cooked tortellini to the cheese sauce and toss until coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Tortellini
A classic Italian dish that combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the earthy sweetness of spinach, all wrapped up in tender tortellini pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of fresh tortellini
– 1 cup of frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
3. Stuff each tortellini with the spinach-ricotta mixture, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Place stuffed tortellini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Homemade Mushroom and Truffle Tortellini
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and earthy homemade tortellini recipe, filled with sautéed mushrooms and the deep flavor of truffle.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
+ 2 tablespoons butter
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 tablespoon truffle oil
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, eggs, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
4. Sauté mushrooms in butter with garlic until tender. Add truffle oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Cut out circles of pasta using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
6. Place a small spoonful of mushroom filling in the center of each circle.
7. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle, pressing edges together to seal.
8. Cook tortellini in boiling water for 3-5 minutes or until they float.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Prosciutto Tortellini in Cream Sauce
This recipe combines the rich flavors of chicken, prosciutto, and cream sauce with tender tortellini for a satisfying and comforting meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 6 oz prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 12-14 cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve.
2. In a separate skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add prosciutto; cook 2-3 minutes or until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add flour and whisk to combine with butter and pan residue. Cook 1 minute.
4. Gradually pour in heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook 2-3 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Add cooked chicken, prosciutto, and tortellini to the sauce. Toss to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin and Sage Tortellini with Brown Butter
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this comforting pasta dish, featuring tender tortellini filled with roasted pumpkin and sage, served with a rich brown butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss pumpkin cubes with olive oil, garlic, and sage on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Combine cooked tortellini with roasted pumpkin and brown butter sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Three-Cheese Tortellini with Tomato Basil Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this comforting and flavorful dish, featuring tender tortellini filled with a blend of creamy cheeses, served in a vibrant tomato basil sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled ricotta cheese
– 2 cups fresh cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they release their juices and start to soften (3-4 minutes).
4. Stir in Parmesan, mozzarella, and ricotta cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Combine cooked tortellini with the cheesy tomato sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped basil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lobster and Crab Stuffed Tortellini
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent recipe featuring succulent lobster and crab, wrapped in a delicate tortellini package. Perfect for special occasions or romantic dinners.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 jumbo shrimp shells
– 1/2 cup fresh lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup lobster meat (thawed)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine crab meat, lobster meat, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Stuff each shrimp shell with the crab-lostern filling, dividing it evenly among the shells.
4. Place the stuffed tortellini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the filling is heated through and the shells are cooked.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Parmesan Tortellini
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, cheesy, and aromatic dish that combines the rich flavors of roasted garlic and parmesan cheese. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) package of fresh tortellini
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast garlic cloves in a foil-lined baking sheet, drizzled with olive oil, for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine roasted garlic, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Stir over medium heat until the cheese melts and the mixture is smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Add cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss to coat with the garlicky sauce.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Goat Cheese Tortellini
This recipe combines the creamy richness of goat cheese with the savory flavor of sun-dried tomatoes, all wrapped up in a tender tortellini package. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a show-stopping main course.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fresh pasta sheets
– 1/4 cup (60g) goat cheese crumbles
– 1/2 cup (120g) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, combine goat cheese crumbles and sun-dried tomatoes.
3. Add olive oil, salt, and pepper to the bowl; mix until well combined.
4. Stuff each cooked tortellini with the goat cheese-sun-dried tomato mixture.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including cooking pasta)
Caramelized Onion and Gorgonzola Tortellini
Caramelized Onion and Gorgonzola Tortellini: A rich and savory pasta dish that combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the creaminess of gorgonzola cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 package cheese tortellini (about 12 oz)
– 8 ounces gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the onions over medium-low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
3. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, caramelized onions, and crumbled gorgonzola cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Sweet Potato and Sage Tortellini
Sweet Potato and Sage Tortellini: A Twist on a Classic Italian Dish
Elevate your pasta game with this unique combination of roasted sweet potatoes and crispy sage leaves wrapped in tender tortellini. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup sage leaves, chopped
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped sage leaves and cook until crispy, stirring occasionally (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. To assemble, place roasted sweet potatoes on a plate, followed by a few pieces of crispy sage leaves, and finally a serving of cooked tortellini.
5. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Shrimp and Lemon Zest Tortellini
Shrimp and Lemon Zest Tortellini: A Bright and Flavorful Twist on Classic Pasta
This recipe combines the sweetness of shrimp with the brightness of lemon zest, wrapped in tender tortellini pasta. It’s a perfect dish for spring or summer when fresh flavors shine.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 lemons, zested
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through (about 2-3 minutes per side).
3. Stir in lemon zest and reserved pasta water. Simmer for 1-2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Combine cooked tortellini, shrimp mixture, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Wild Mushroom and Thyme Tortellini
This recipe combines the earthy flavors of wild mushrooms with the brightness of fresh thyme, wrapped up in a tender tortellini package. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and shiitake), cleaned and sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the mushrooms in a skillet with olive oil, garlic, and thyme until tender.
2. In a separate bowl, combine flour, eggs, and salt to make the tortellini dough. Knead for 5 minutes.
3. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
4. Place small spoonfuls of the mushroom mixture onto the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around each filling.
5. Fold the dough over the filling, forming tortellini shapes.
6. Cook in boiling salted water for 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface.
7. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto and Pine Nut Tortellini
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with a creamy pesto sauce and crunchy pine nuts, wrapped up in tender tortellini. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner or as an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fresh cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto (see below for recipe)
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Pesto Recipe:
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat the pesto over medium heat until warm.
3. Add toasted pine nuts to the pesto and stir to combine.
4. Drain cooked tortellini and add to the pesto mixture.
5. Toss until tortellini is well coated with pesto and pine nuts. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Rosemary Tortellini in Red Wine Sauce
This hearty pasta dish combines tender beef and rosemary-filled tortellini with a rich red wine sauce, perfect for a cozy evening meal. The flavors of the slow-cooked beef and herbs are perfectly balanced by the bold, fruity notes of the red wine.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef tortellini
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
3. Add red wine, beef broth, and rosemary to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Add cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss with sauce until well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Butternut Squash and Amaretti Tortellini
Elevate your pasta game with this unique combination of roasted butternut squash and crunchy amaretti cookies, wrapped in tender tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 12-15 amaretti cookies, crushed
– 1 package fresh tortellini (cheese-filled or plain)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel the butternut squash, remove seeds, and place it on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
2. Meanwhile, cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Scoop roasted squash flesh into a bowl and mash slightly. Add crushed amaretti cookies and mix well.
4. Stuff each tortellini with the squash-amaretti mixture, leaving a small border at the top.
5. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (roasting time) + 2-3 minutes (cooking tortellini)
Artichoke and Lemon Ricotta Tortellini
This recipe combines the flavors of artichoke, lemon, and ricotta to create a unique and mouthwatering tortellini dish. The artichoke adds a savory element, while the lemon zest provides a bright and citrusy note.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh artichoke hearts
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large pot of salted water.
2. In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, artichoke hearts, lemon juice, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Place a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place 1 tablespoon of the artichoke-ricotta mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press edges together to seal.
5. Cook tortellini in boiling water for 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Drain and serve with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Porcini and Pancetta Tortellini
A classic Italian dish gets a rich and earthy twist with the addition of porcini mushrooms and crispy pancetta. These tender tortellini are perfect for a special occasion or cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 tortellini wrappers
– 1/2 cup porcini mushrooms, finely chopped
– 4 slices pancetta, diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a pan, cook pancetta until crispy, then set aside.
3. In the same pan, add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
4. Add porcini mushrooms; cook until tender and lightly browned.
5. Mix in Parmesan cheese; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place a spoonful of the mushroom mixture onto each tortellini wrapper; fold and press edges together to seal.
7. Cook tortellini in boiling, salted water for 3-5 minutes or until floating to surface. Drain and serve with pancetta crumbles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Feta Tortellini
Roasted Red Pepper and Feta Tortellini: A flavorful and elegant pasta dish that combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the tanginess of feta cheese, all wrapped up in tender tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 large red bell peppers, roasted
– 1/4 cup (30g) crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred.
3. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
5. Add roasted red peppers and crumbled feta cheese to the skillet. Toss to combine.
6. Combine cooked tortellini with the pepper-feta mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chocolate and Hazelnut Dessert Tortellini
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these indulgent tortellini filled with a rich chocolate-hazelnut filling, wrapped in a delicate pastry wrapper.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon hazelnut spread
– 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, sugar, and cocoa powder until well combined.
2. Stir in the hazelnut spread and chopped hazelnuts.
3. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place a small spoonful of the chocolate-hazelnut filling in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the tortellini.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Cook the tortellini in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (includes cooking time)
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pasta game with these 20 delicious homemade tortellini recipes! From classic cheese and ricotta fillings to more adventurous options like lobster and crab, pumpkin and sage, and even chocolate and hazelnut for dessert. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or an impressive dinner party dish, this collection has something for every occasion. With a range of flavors and ingredients to choose from, you’ll find the perfect tortellini recipe to satisfy your cravings.
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